As a long-time gadget enthusiast, I’ve always admired Shark’s knack for adding thoughtful touches that elevate everyday household items. Let me be clear, I’m no Mrs Hinch.
Cleaning doesn’t bring me joy or satisfaction, it’s just a necessary chore. However, there’s always a small sense of satisfaction when I glide across my kitchen floor with the deep cleaning power of my Shark steam mop, or inhale the fresh scent after vacuuming with my Shark Stratos, which includes anti-odour pods that make the carpet smell as if it’s been professionally cleaned.
Now, they’ve applied their design and engineering prowess to fans with the Shark FlexBreeze – currently on sale at Amazon and Shark for £149 and £149.99 respectively, reduced from £199.99 – introducing a high-end, feature-rich gadget that competes with Dyson’s best at half the cost. Fans are, let’s be honest, a heatwave necessity that we all reluctantly purchase in a rush without really considering the specifications – until now.
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I got an early look at the Shark FlexBreeze at a press event earlier this year where I listed it as one of the 12 most anticipated gadgets of 2024, but having one in person surpassed my already high expectations. Unboxing the FlexBreeze, it initially appears rather complex with a multitude of different attachments and pieces to sort through.
However, fear not, as it easily clips together and I had it charging in the corner of the room within mere minutes – in fact, breaking down the box for recycling took longer. This could well be the most adaptable fan I’ve ever used and, at this point, I believe it’s worth the price even before Shark slashed £50 off it in their summer sale.
The five-speed FlexBreeze can be used indoors or outdoors, corded or cordless – though you’ll need to charge it prior to its first outdoor use. Much to my children’s joy, you can even attach a small water compartment to it and spritz cool water droplets if you’re lounging outside during one of those still and scorching heatwave days.
What I adore most is its true versatility. You can detach the main fan from the stand to make it freestanding with a simple flick of the wrist and, suddenly, if you’re enjoying a drink in the garden under the sun and it feels a tad too warm, you’ve got a refreshing breeze.
According to Shark, this reduces the air temperature by an impressive five degrees. It also comes with a case to store the pieces you’re not using, so there’s no risk of misplacing anything.
It’s quiet enough to sleep with – even when oscillating, which is typically when my previous fan would make its presence known, and it certainly delivers a cooling punch. Shark has earned a well-deserved reputation among its fans for introducing clever innovations that leave you wondering ‘why has no-one ever thought of that before?’ and the FlexBreeze is chock-full of such signature details.
From the magnetic back where you can attach the remote control to prevent misplacing it, to the spritz spray, the ease with which it can be disassembled (seriously, even Optimus Prime can’t transform as quickly), and the carry handle which seamlessly integrates into the stylish design – this is the last fan you’ll ever need to purchase and it’s worth every penny.
My only minor gripe is that if you’re using it in the full stand mode, it could do with being a tad taller. However, having used it for some time, I’m content to work around this by converting it into a tabletop fan and placing it on a counter or desk instead.
If the Shark FlexBreeze fan doesn’t tickle your fancy, Dyson’s Cool tower fan is also on sale – reduced to £225 from £349.99. The Dyson Hot+Cool Jet Focus fan heater has also seen big price drop from £399.99 to £329.99.
